Acura TSX

kenk25

fredvh... had 800 mile trip from NJ to MA and back during one weekend. Avg 29 mpg, 2350 rpm @ 70. This is auto. My car only had 1100 miles at the time. Hope to get better mpg after the break in period.

typee

With 10K on our TSX with auto trans, we average 26 - 27.5 in mixed highway/urban driving, and 31 - 33.5 in mostly freeway travel. We have yet to take a trip in circs ideal for max mileage. Thus far, mileage averages 1.5 mpg better than our previous car, a 1995 Accord 4 cylinder auto trans. We run 89 and 91 octane, and we make sure the AC compressor is "off" unless we want cold air or dehumidification. No surprises.

johnny420

that's pretty impressive. At 2400 miles, I'm getting a consistent 22 mpg in 60-40 city-highway driving.

I'm really hoping mileage improves as I log more miles on the car, as many people have said is common on Honda engines.

So far I'm disappointed in the mileage, but other than getting used to the stiffness of the ride and the tightness of the cabin, I'm pretty happy with the car. It's fun to drive, though I do miss the V6 power.

It's also very solid throughout.

Johnny

igiban

Why is TSX's longer than bigger cars like TL and Accord's?

automophile

It is likely that the larger cars have more side room between the engine and the wheels, so the wheels can turn in further. One of the problems with FWD cars.

igiban

has smaller turning circle. They are all FWD... Go figure.

automophile

The RSX has a shorter wheelbase,(-4") so it will turn sharper even with the same angle of the front wheels.

dora

Has anyone bought from Esserman Acura? I'm wondering if they are good to deal with - or is another Miami dealership better?

igiban

Well that's my original point. TSX has shorter wheelbase, over length, tracks, width... you name it, than TL or Accord, and yet longer turning radius. Smaller and yet less nimble in turns. Seems unfair?

kyfdx

Even though the shorter wheelbase favors the TSX, the tires are as wide as the other two. With the narrower body, and longer transverse engine (4 cylinders wide vs 3 cyl. wide for the V-6) there is less room for increased front wheel angle when turning.

That is a simplification, but basically, not enough room in the front wheel wells to turn that fat tire at a sharp angle.

regards,
kyfdx

varmint

The turning radius has more to do with the steering geometry. The size of the tires and width of the engine are not significant factors.

Take the old TL vs the TL-S as an example. One of the changes between the two was to massage the steering for high speeds and faster reactions. The turning radius on the Type S is wider. It's not uncommon for cars with a priority on handling.

igiban

I was test driving a TSX auto last Fri and noticed that when started from stop, the tranny or engine gave me a noise/feel that it's dragging/struggling a bit. Once it shifted out of the 1st then it sounded much better. Salesman did not comment anything when I asked about it so I gather that's the way it is. Any one feels/hears that?

fredvh

A number of years ago we had a DOT requirement that all new cars had to have a bumper that would survive a "minor" 5 miles-per-hour collision. This requirement was changed and it is too bad. Some manufacturers still make their bumpers to the old standard but most do not. As someone once said: "This is not brain surgery" referring to making a bumper survive a minor 5 mph crash. GM could have easily done it and now they are considering a bumper redesign for the new Malibu. Why did they not do it in the original design? They say that their vehicle meets all current Federal Safety Standards but why not make them better. The new Malibu was supposed to be a "new start" for much improved quality and design at GM but I wonder if it is really so. The 2004 TL and TSX also did poorly in the bumper test. IMO

redkey1

Is it possible that Acura, while committing to safety (curtain air bags etc), did not want to add weight to the bumpers and decrease performance just to get the OK from an interest group that is really working for the benefit of the insurance industry?

It seems that these tests do not signify "safety" per se, but the repair cost of such accidents which usually falls on the insurance company. It is no secret that a cheaper car (Kia) used much heavier materials in constructing their cars which obviously can withstand small collisions better lighter materials found on expensive vehicles.

I know that my 1978 Ford would have passed that test with flying colors!

kyfdx

The insurance company isn't going to lose money. If costs are high, it will come out of your pocket with increased premiums on high cost models.

regards,
kyfdx

varmint

People can spin the IIHS data in a number of ways. Rover claimed that quality (expensive) materials are used in the Freelander and that fact explains why it scored poorly. But one thing is certain. The IIHS bumper bash has nothing to do with safety.

pat

Consumers' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2004 Survey is posted and ready for your input!

redkey1

Has anyone had a remote starter installed in their TSX?

cornellpremed

What are the 0-60 times on the TSX? What about with automatic transmission? Thanks.

fredvh

Can anyone tell me when the 2005 TSX is going to come out? Will there be any changes?
     On the TSX auto trans what is the RPM at exactly 70 mph?
     What kind of mpg are you getting with the auto trans?

dmacneill

NHTSA has just posted the results of the government crash tests for the TSX. All 5 stars except 4 stars on side impact crash test for rear seat passengers.

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/NCAP/Cars/2004MidS.html

xplorx4

Not sure when the '05 models will hit showroom floors, nor what will be different.

Your other 2 questions were answered in post #3300, just a couple of days after you asked the first time. Maybe you missed that post...

markjenn

Since the car only shipped a year ago, I wouldn't expect anything but detail changes for 2005. I'd also expect the 2005s to ship around the normal new model introduction date: fall 2004.

- Mark

fredvh

Thanks for your help. You are right! I missed it or I forgot I had even asked it before.

twinturbotim

In some cars, turning the heat or a/c on drops the power a little bit. Is it noticable in the tsx?

fedlawman

I took my TSX to a BMWCCA track event yesterday at Pacific Raceways. Perfect weather, beautiful cars, and a terrific experience.

My FWD 4-banger kept up just fine with all those E46 325's. I lapped more than a few inexperienced drivers piloting E46 330's, and even paced a well driven E36 M3 for one complete lap...what a blast! Then I got a 4 lap ride in a '96 Porsche 911 Turbo. Wow!

What else...two 350Z's were out on the track - they sound awesome (nice throaty exhaust) accelerating down the straight-away and through turn 1. Also, one guy had a late model Lotus Esprit, and there were two WRX STi's out there. One of the STi's was in my group and got behind me, seemingly out of nowhere. I waved him past me after exiting turn 9 and he passed me like I was standing still (I was doing about 60)!

Overall, a terrific club and an awesome day of fun at Pacific Raceways!

I posted some photos in the "TSX Owners" section. Here's a teaser that I didn't post over there...

fredvh

Brian
    Thanks for posting the great picture of your TSX. I like the color too but my wife would not let me get red. She hates red cars. By the way, how many miles on the TSX now and what kind of mpg are you getting? Is your RPM at 70 mph approximately 2350? Great Picture!

fedlawman

That's funny. I fell in love with the parchment interior but thought red would be too flashy for my wife. However, she was the one who fell in love with the red and convinced me to go for it.

I bought my TSX last May and now have almost 8,000 miles on it (it's a weekend car only). I get roughly 25 MPG, but that's a really rough guess since I don't really pay too much attention to its mileage.

Mine's a 6-speed and cruises in top gear at 3000 RPM at 70 MPH. You should know that the Honda 2.4 I-4 is so smooth that you could cruise at redline all day and barely feel it!

The TSX is by far the best car I've ever owned. It's level of performance, luxury, refinement, and elegance is far beyond what you'd expect for $26,000.

dudleyr

I know the engine is smooth, but it sure would be nice if the 6-speed had a real overdrive that was more relaxed on the highway, and offered better mpg.

Considering that 6th gear is really for cruising (0-60 is in the first 2 gears) a taller top gear would not effect performance. An occasional downshift may be needed for hills, but that would be well worth it in my opinion.

gee35coupe

of the TSX engine. I agree the revs can be a little disconcerting. And the thought of how much gas is being wasted at the high rpms can also get on your nerves. But the engine is smooth as glass. You'd never know how fast the engine was turning if it werent for the tach.

fedlawman

The TSX already has a very high final drive ratio (it's like 4.7 or something like that). I think 3000 at 70 mph is perfectly reasonable for a car, and certainly for one with such a smooth and refined powerplant.

I remember when my car was new, I drove to San Francisco and back over a four-day weekend (I live in Seattle). On my first tank-full, I drove over 400 miles, which, off the top of my head, equates to at least 35 MPG.

igiban

Nice pic there. I like parchment interior too but also thought TSX red (which is the same is the RSX's?) is kinda flashy. It's more like one for a 20 year old needing attention from girls, or cops actually. The red for TL is more mature and subtle. Acura seems to think TSX's for much younger drivers than TL's.

redkey1

I picked up my new TSX and I am having a bit of trouble w/ the radio...I seem to be getting some static on most FM stations (ones that are local and have never given me a problem in any other car). Any thoughts? Has anyone else experienced the tuner being weak? I thought at first it might be one of the front tweeters in the dash, but I played w/ a CD and don't hear anything. Thanks.

I like the red too, but a bit flashy for my taste. I do think the parch interior make it look classier though.

sjmurray3

Has anyone priced replacement Michelins for the TSX, TireRack states $173 per tire? Can this be right?

kyfdx

OEM tires are always expensive.. There are many alternatives in the TSX size that are cheaper and better than the stock tires. That said, 17" tires are about 30%-50% more expensive than 16".

Regards,
kyfdx

sjmurray3

I agree with you, but unlike other makes with 17 inch tires, there seems to be only about three different tires on TireRack.com that fit the TSX? All three are very expensive. I am currently deciding between the TSX and the Accord EXV6, but costly replacement tires, premium gas and the smaller engine and legroom is driving me towards the Accord. I do like the overall look of the TSX including the interior layout.

kyfdx

But, I personally really like the look and the handling of the TSX. For my tastes, the fact that its smaller is a bonus. You also won't see another one every hundred yards as you go down the road.

I found about seven tires for the TSX, but you are right.. expensive.. $111-$172 each.

Assuming 45 gallons of gas a month (15K/yr @ 25 MPG), premium is about $9/month extra, assuming the cars get about the same gas mileage.

I just really like the TSX better than the Accord all the way around. I feel like it has enough power that the difference wouldn't affect my decision. You also get a longer warranty. Plus, the butt on the Accord just doesn't do it for me. Actual selling price is probably about $2K more than the V6-EX Accord.

regards,
kyfdx

redkey1

I paid $25,500 for my TSX, TMV on the v6 Accord is just under $25k....that is only about $500 by my math. The TSX has more than enough power, any more and it would erode the handling. If you drove both you would not say the TSx was grossly less powered than the accord unless you really like the pull of the front wheels and torque steer.

kyfdx

I was going by the prices paid board.. Anywhere between $22,700 and $24,000 for the V6-EX. For reference, TMV also shows TSX at $26,500. I think $2000 is about right.

I agree that the TSX has plenty of power, but if you get the automatic, there is plenty of room for more power without torque steer. I haven't heard any complaints of that from the V6 Accord (240HP) or the TL (270HP) with the auto. transmission.

Like I said, I recommend the TSX. Horsepower is a small part of the equation, once you get to an acceptable level. If you can't go fast with 200 HP, then 400 Hp is not going to help.

regards,
kyfdx

redkey1

I think they are both great values at their respective price points, but just a bit different. I think money magazine said it best that the TSX is the Accord's younger, well dressed little brother. If you absolutely need the extra leg room in the back get the Accord, if not get the TSX. You really can't go wrong w/ either one but I say the TSX is worth the couple of extra $$$ if you don't need the accord for space reasons.

kyfdx

I think the TSX is a great car, especially if you are looking for something sportier, with an upscale feel to it. I really came within about 8 hours of buying one in December. I drove one on a Saturday, but my wife wasn't with me. They only had two available.. Black, which I knew my wife didn't want, and Silver, which was acceptable but probably not her first choice. If they had Anthracite or Meteor Silver, I would have bought it that day.

I decided to think it over, as we had previously been shopping lightly used BMWs, but were put off by the price. When I got home that night, talked to my wife, she decided that silver was fine, and that is probably what we should get. It was getting to be decision time as she was in the last month of her current lease.

I was going to go back over to the dealer on Monday after work. That Monday morning, a guy called me back on an '03 BMW 325i that I had put an offer on previously. Well, that was that, and I don't have a TSX, but I have no doubt I would have been happy with it.

Take all this with a grain of salt, though.. I'm a Honda guy. Eight Hondas and Acuras total.

regards,
kyfdx

dudleyr

My issue is comparing the TSX to the 4-cyl Accord. I prefer the looks of the TSX, and the nimbleness/smaller size, but the Accord with the 4 cylinder and manual tranny is within a hair of being as fast as the TSX (due to lighter weight- and the nearly equel torque). The Accord is also much less expensive, and gets much better gas mileage. The 4-cyl also has handling characteristics that are closer to the TSX than the V-6, as it is several hundered pounds lighter than the V-6 and has less torque steer.

redkey1

I just feel that the TSX has that European, bmw-esque feel to it. It feels like a luxury car, yet is a honda at heart. The accord is an excellent car but too boring for me.

justin

where is this torque steer that people refer to with the TSX and Accord?

my big daddy V6 Accord has zero torque steer. it only has as much as 212 lb ft of torque. if that has no torque steer, how can the TSX?

a Saab? sure. a Maxima? yep. but "Honda" and "torque steer" just don't mesh. "torque steer" implies an abundance of torque

kyfdx

Well..most of the comparisons between the V6-EX and the TSX happen because they are closer in price. I would also assume that 70% or more of TSXs come with automatics, and probably 95% of Accords. The 5-speed Accord may be a close match in pure acceleration terms (maybe), but even with leather, it is missing a lot of the content that the TSX has. 17" wheels, sport suspension, automatic climate control, xenons, etc.. The 4 cylinder Accord is a great value (I've had three of them), but I don't think the two cars get cross-shopped, except possibly by manual transmission buyers.. And there doesn't seem to be many of us left.

regards,
kyfdx

markjenn

I think people use the term "torque steer" rather loosely to refer to a wide variety of FWD handling issues: true torque steer (where the steering wheel is jerked to one side or the other under power), excessive understeer under power, and intermittent wheelspin when accelerating hard in conditions with less than perfect traction.

Both the TSX and TL manage true torque steer fairly well, but both exhibit the other two FWD handling issues when driven aggressively, the TL worse because of the extra power. If you read any of the reviews of the TL, they all say it is a great car up to a point, but beyond you just can't mask that it's handling is subpar due to the FWD. I think the TSX manages to hide its FWD problems a lot better due to lighter weight and lesser power.

- Mark

justin

well, don't want to start a RWD vs. FWD forum here, but one reviewers "subpar" feelings are another real world drivers great feelings. it is currently en vogue to trash FWD cars. manufacturers are noticing this, and coming out with RWD platforms. i mean, does Chrysler really think anyone is going to buy a RWD 300 over a FWD TL?

i have never felt that FWD cars are inferior, just different. just like it takes a skilled driver to not kill themselves in a RWD car, it takes a skilled driver to learn how to drive a FWD car.

kyfdx

Good post.. I think you hit the nail on the head.

justin

also, i really like the TSX, but here in DC, they are not budging off of MSRP from what i can tell. why is that? they will deal on a 2 door TSX (RSX) but not the 4 door....

kyfdx

If they have the car you want on the lot.. not a dealer trade or an order.. I'm betting the discounts are there. Both dealers here say the same thing: " MSRP.. we aren't discounting ". But, if the car is there and not spoken for, an offer of $25,500 will get their attention, and I'm betting $26K will close the deal.

Just don't ask them what they want for the car. That is on the sticker. You never really know what they will take until you actually make the offer.

Good luck.. and shop around.
kyfdx